Mr. Ladon Smith, age 76, of Elba, Alabama, departed this life on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family. A proud Vietnam veteran, he faithfully served his country in the United States Army as a member of field artillery and later continued his service as a specialist in the Alabama National Guard.

Ladon was an avid fisherman who found peace on the water and joy in time spent with his family. To the racing community across the Southeast, he was known as "Lightening Ladon," the fearless driver of the Motor Auto Parts #11 Red Camaro. His skill and determination earned him back‑to‑back victories in the renowned Rattler late model stock car racing event, along with numerous wins and multiple short‑track championships throughout the region.

His lifelong passion for fine‑tuning automobiles led him to open Quality Automotive, where he proudly served the people of his community with honesty, craftsmanship, and dedication. In his later years, Ladon enjoyed wood crafting and took great pride in watching his grandchildren participate in a variety of sporting events.

Funeral services will be held from Shiloh Baptist Church on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 2:00 PM with Rev. Leon Fortune and Rev. Anthony Sherrer officiating. Committal services will follow in the Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM. Flowers will be accepted, or those wishing to make memorials are asked to do so in care of Shiloh Baptist Church, 218 County Road 407, Elba, Alabama 36323.

Ladon is survived by his loving wife, Kathy McDurmont Smith of Elba, AL; son, Donnie (Tanya) Smith of Geneva, AL; daughter, Heather (Billy) Coppage of Elba, AL; granddaughter, Dailynn (Keith) Ellison of Daphne, AL; granddaughters, Dalaney & Daphnie Smith of Geneva, AL; grandson, Chandler (Destiny) Coppage of Elba, AL; grandson, Brayson Coppage of Elba, AL; sister, Sarah Parrish of Woodland, GA; sister‑in‑law, Elaine Smith of New Brockton, AL; brother‑in‑law, Jerome Blackmon of Elba, AL; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tenioun & Ruby Hundley Smith; brothers Martin, Billy, Travis, Bo, and Trenton Smith; and sisters Jeanette Simmons, Erline Tindol, Lell Tindol, Erma Pittman, and Corena Blackmon.

Hayes Funeral Home of Elba, Alabama is serving the Smith family.